There will be zero tolerance for anyone who makes unnecessary journeys this Bank Holiday weekend, as Gardai step up their crackdown on those who flout restrictions.

People who use public transport have been warned they will need a very good reason if they intend to travel beyond the 2km limit.

Earlier this month, Gardai were given new powers by the Government to fine or detain those failing to adhere to COVID-19 lockdown regulations. Gardai have arrested 76 people under the laws against non-essential travel — as a new wave of checkpoints began in recent days.

There will be zero tolerance for anyone who makes unnecessary journeys this Bank Holiday weekend, as Gardai step up their crackdown on those who flout restrictions. Pic: Gareth Chaney/Collins

Another two were arrested on the instruction of a medical professional between April 8 and 25. However, as many as 760 were arrested for other alleged offences after being held by Gardai enforcing the restrictions.

Jane Creegan, spokeswoman for Irish Rail, said members of the force have been boarding trains throughout the country in order to question passengers about their journeys.

Jane Creegan, spokeswoman for Irish Rail, said members of the force have been boarding trains throughout the country in order to question passengers about their journeys. Pic: RollingNews.ie

‘We have Gardai on almost a daily basis to make sure people’s trips are essential,’ she told the Irish Daily Mail. ‘There are regular checks on both inter-city and commuter lines but it is up to the Gardai to judge what will happen to those who flout the rules.

‘We have our own security and staff monitoring the situation too, but this has been the case ever since the restrictions were announced five weeks ago.’

Dublin Bus has also advised passengers to prove their journey is essential should they be questioned by Gardai.Pic: Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Dublin Bus has also advised passengers to prove their journey is essential should they be questioned by Gardai. However, despite the lockdown measures, the number of passengers hopping onto Dublin buses has increased by 3.5% compared to the week before.

A spokesman for Luas operator Transdev told the Irish Daily Mail that Garda co-operation is welcomed. ‘The current system is working very well for us and we have the support of the gardaí. We are glad to say the guidelines are largely being observed.’

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has urged people to comply with the restrictions as Gardai will be out in full force at the weekend. Pic: Colin Keegan/Collins

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has urged people to comply with the restrictions. Operation Fanacht will see an extensive network of checkpoints across the country and Gardai will also be patrolling tourist hotspots, major parks and walking routes in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19.

The operation, which started at 7am Wednesday, runs until Monday night. The commissioner said on Tuesday that compliance with the restrictions has been high and that arrest is a last resort for officers.

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